Sigiriya travel guide

About Sigiriya

Sigiriya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Its famous Lion Rock rises about 200 metres above the jungle, crowned by the ruins of a 5th-century royal palace and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The rock is only the start. Within an hour’s drive you can explore the cave temples of Dambulla, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and national parks where herds of wild elephants gather. Most travellers use Sigiriya as a base for two or three nights.

Best time to visit

January to September is generally driest; the north-east monsoon brings more rain from about October to December.

How long to stay

2–3 nights to see Sigiriya, Dambulla and Polonnaruwa at an easy pace.

Getting there

About 4 hours by private car from Colombo airport.

Region

Cultural Triangle

Things to do in Sigiriya

1. 1

   Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock

   Pass the water gardens, the painted frescoes and the giant lion paws on your way up to the palace ruins at the summit. Start early to avoid the midday heat and the crowds.

2. 2

   Sunrise on Pidurangala Rock

   A shorter, rougher climb next door rewards you with the classic view of Lion Rock rising out of the forest, best at sunrise or sunset.

3. 3

   Dambulla Cave Temple

   Five caves filled with Buddha statues and painted ceilings, a UNESCO site about 30 minutes from Sigiriya.

4. 4

   Ancient city of Polonnaruwa

   Cycle or drive between well-preserved palaces, temples and the serene Gal Vihara rock carvings, about an hour away.

5. 5

   Elephant safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla

   Jeep safaris to see wild elephants grazing by the reservoirs, with the largest herds usually in the drier months from around July to October.

6. 6

   Village tour and cooking lesson

   Ride a bullock cart, paddle a catamaran across a lake and learn to cook rice and curry with a local family.

Local tips for Sigiriya

• Bring water, a hat and shoes with good grip for the climb.
• Cover shoulders and knees for Dambulla and other temples.
• Ask your driver to time the safari to where the elephants have been seen that week.

Private transfers to Sigiriya

• Colombo Airport to Sigiriya: about 150 km, 4 hours